Future Homes
The new year has brought a renewed sustainability focus here at RT as we get to grips with the proposed changes to Part L of the Building Regulations.
The carbon reduction headlines looked positive at first glance but, with the help of LETI and ACAN, it’s clear that there are some major issues which need addressing to prevent the deterioration of thermal performance and energy efficiency.
1. Fabric performance is likely to get worse – a home in 2020 could be less insulated than a home under 2013 Building Regulations. The use of an energy efficient heating system has the ability to mask fabric performance.
2. Carbon and primary energy factors disguise the energy efficiency of a home. The energy consumption of a home can be high but carbon emissions low, which leads to inefficient homes which appear to be performing well
3. Local authorities are being stripped of their powers to go above and beyond the new Part L, conflicting with their own targets
We’re encouraging everyone to respond to the consultation via the links below to drive change in the right direction.